Latest Update (16 December 2025) | A 24-year-old suspect has appeared in court in connection with the murder of 22-year-old Reuben Marsberg

This article follows earlier reports on the disappearance of 22-year-old Reuben Marsberg. You can read the initial timeline and family statements here.

Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the murder of a person believed to be missing Limpopo mechanic Reuben Marsberg. The South African Police Service says the body was found in the Makhado area in an advanced state of decomposition. DNA testing is still underway to formally confirm the identity of the deceased.

The arrest follows days of intense investigation after Marsberg was reported missing late in November.

Reuben’s Mother Clarifies Key Facts About Reuben Marsberg

Reuben Marsberg’s mother, Virginia Marsberg, has addressed inaccuracies in earlier reports. She confirmed that her son is 22 years old and that his vehicle is a 1999 Toyota Land Cruiser.

“He was kidnapped from the house he and his brother were staying at in Levubu. His vehicle and boat, among other items, were taken. The vehicle was later found partially stripped outside Polokwane Airport,” she wrote on Facebook.

She also clarified that older remains were found nearby but have not been identified. Ms. Marsberg confirmed that a suspect is currently in custody.

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SAPS Confirms Arrest in Reuben Marsberg Case

According to a statement issued by the Provincial Missing Persons Unit, a twenty-four-year-old man has been apprehended in connection with the case. Police have registered charges of murder and house robbery against the suspect, who is expected to appear in a local Magistrates’ Court.

SAPS described the deceased as a man believed to be Reuben Marsberg, who was reported missing on Thursday, 27 November 2025.

Where Reuben Marsberg’s Body Was Found, According to the Police

Police said the body was discovered dumped in bushes near Correctional Services in the Makhado area. The remains were wrapped in a blanket and were in an advanced state of decomposition.

As part of the investigation, officers recovered property believed to belong to the missing man, including a trailer, a boat, and a bull bar.

Vehicle Recovered Near Polokwane Airport

Investigators confirmed that the missing man’s vehicle was found abandoned near Polokwane International Airport in the Capricorn District. The recovery of the vehicle was a key breakthrough that led police to additional evidence and ultimately to the suspect’s arrest.

Police say valuable items were stolen during the incident, which they describe as a house robbery linked to the murder.

DNA Testing Still Pending to Confirm Identity

Despite the arrest and recovery of evidence, SAPS has stressed that the identity of the deceased has not yet been formally confirmed. DNA analysis is still being conducted as part of standard forensic procedures.

Police have used the wording “believed to be” when referring to Reuben Marsberg, and no official identification has been released at this stage.

Investigation Continues as Reuben’s Family Awaits Answers

The arrest comes amid widespread public attention and emotional strain for the family, who previously asked that only verified information be shared. Police say investigations are continuing and that further details will be released through official channels as they become available.

Anyone with additional information related to the case is urged to contact SAPS.

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